On this page, you will find everything you need to know about coeliac disease.
What Is Coeliac Disease?
Coeliac disease is a chronic autoimmune condition that occurs when the immune system attacks the intestines upon consuming foods containing gluten, such as those found in wheat.
What Are the Symptoms of Coeliac Disease?
Eating foods that contain gluten protein causes irritation in the digestive system, with symptoms including:
- Constipation or diarrhoea.
- Stomach pain.
- Abdominal bloating.
- Gas.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Weight loss.
- Persistent fatigue.
Other symptoms include:
- Anemia.
- Headaches.
- Mouth ulcers.
- Neuropathy.
- Anxiety or depression.
What Causes Coeliac Disease?
Coeliac disease results from the immune system attacking the intestines when consuming products that contain gluten. There are factors that increase the risk of developing coeliac disease:
- Family history.
- Infection in the digestive system, such as rotavirus infection during childhood.
How Is it Diagnosed?
The doctor will take a medical history and perform a clinical examination. Additional procedures may be requested as needed, such as:
- Blood tests for antibodies.
- Genetic testing.
If the results suggest a possibility of coeliac disease, the doctor may request an endoscopy and a biopsy of the digestive tract.
How Is Coeliac Disease Treated?
There is no cure for coeliac disease; only follow a healthy gluten-free diet.
In case of severe inflammation, the doctor may prescribe corticosteroid medications.
How Can Coeliac Disease be Prevented?
There is no known way to prevent coeliac disease, but you can prevent complications by following these guidelines:
- Read food labels carefully, especially for added ingredients.
- Inform the medical team that you have a wheat allergy or coeliac disease.
What Are the Complications of Coeliac Disease?
Complications of coeliac disease pose a risk only for those who are undiagnosed or continue to eat products containing gluten protein, and they include:
- Osteoporosis.
- Anemia.
- Vitamin B12 deficiency.
- Delayed puberty (in children).
- Damage to tooth enamel.
- Learning difficulties (in children).
- Neuropathy.
When Should You See a Doctor?
If any of the symptoms mentioned above appear, please visit a doctor immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does having coeliac disease affect the quality of life?
If the guidelines are followed and gluten-containing foods are avoided, you will not experience any symptoms, God willing. However, some may find it challenging to follow the guidelines and avoid gluten-containing foods, which can affect their quality of life.
What should I do before undergoing coeliac disease testing?
For more accurate results, do not avoid gluten-free products; just follow a regular diet until results are available.
